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How to Write in a Poetry Idea Journal

A journal is ideal for keeping track of ideas for poems. Anything from titles to words that capture your attention to full lines or stanzas can be written in a poetry idea journal for those times when the muse seems to be on vacation. Use a spiral bound or an engraved custom journal and start keeping track of your ideas. It could be a prime source of inspiration when you need it most.

Things You'll Need

  • Pencil
  • Journal
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Instructions

    • 1

      Write down title ideas. Sometimes the right title can spark an entire poem. Devote a section of your journal to titles and spend a little time brainstorming. Think of as many titles as you can, even if they don't inspire a poem at the moment. What doesn't make sense today may make sense tomorrow.

    • 2

      List as many rhymes as you can. If a rhyme comes to you, write it in your journal whether you can use it or not. It might come in handy when you're searching for a rhyme.

    • 3

      Write stanzas (verses) out of context. A beautiful stanza may not have a home in one of your current poems, but it might inspire a poem or fit into an existing poem in the future.

    • 4

      Create word scenery. Look around you. Take note of your surroundings, wherever you may be, and take the time to describe the area in a verse or two. At the very least, even if you never use what you write, it's a good exercise to help you develop your descriptive power with words.

    • 5

      Copy some of your favorite poems as an exercise. Copying your favorite poems is a way to involve and interact with the poem. Although you didn't originally write it, this allows you to get inside the poem creatively. Copying your favorite poems can also be a relaxing way to let your mind wander.

Poetry

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